My first watch

I was 17, a time filled with the pressure of an all-important public exam. But let's not dwell on the stress of exams; the real story here is about my Citizen watch that became an integral part of this phase of my life.

A few months before the all important public exams, a family visit to my grandparents' house changed everything. While I was relaxing in the living room, watching a TV show, an unexpected call from my dad redirected my attention. Money exchanged hands, along with a simple request: get a wristwatch. The request was curious, considering I'd never been a watch person, and my dad had never shown much interest in watches either. This contradiction intrigued me. I initially brushed off the idea, arguing that phones could tell time just fine. But my dad's reasoning was simple—exams required a watch; phones were off-limits. So, I reluctantly agreed and set out with my mom to find a suitable watch.

We went to an old store run by an elderly Chinese couple. I was faced with a choice between modern digital Casio watches and an analog Citizen watch. There was something about the Citizen watch that caught my eye, it is simple yet attractive. So, despite my reservations, I picked the budget-friendly quartz timepiece, not fully grasping its significance at the time, oblivious to the world of automatic watches.

As time moved forward, that seemingly unremarkable Citizen watch became so much more than just a time-telling device. It became a true companion, accompanying me through the stress of high school exams, the excitement and uncertainty of college life, the challenges of dental school, and the vast landscape of professional experiences.

Among a growing collection of watches, the Citizen watch held a special place. It was the one I instinctively reached for during pivotal moments—an impending exam, a nerve-wracking first date, or a make-or-break job interview. Even though I had newer watches, the Citizen watch remained my choice, simply because it felt right and familiar.

The watch itself bore the marks of time—rust on its casing and scratches on its mineral glass. Yet, these imperfections held a deeper significance. They symbolized a connection that went beyond the surface. This watch carried a kind of strength that went beyond its appearance, offering comfort when I needed it the most. I am 29 now and this watch has accompanied me for 12 years.

Some might find it strange to feel emotionally attached to an inanimate object, but for me, it's a tribute to the stories that objects can hold. It's a reminder of my dad's love and guidance, encapsulated in the gift of that watch. Interestingly, I've never been concerned about the watch's model; to me, it's simply the Citizen watch, embodying its essence.